charge of elephants than by the tactics of the phalanx. However, they
retired in good order. Pyrrhus is said to have been much impressed by
the heroic conduct of the foe, and to have said, "Another such victory
will send me back without a man to Epirus." He recognized the inferior
qualities of his Greek allies, and determined to make a peace. A
trusted messenger, CINEAS, was sent to Rome. He was noted for his
eloquence, which was said to have gained more for his master than the
sword. Through him Pyrrhus promised to retire to Epirus if safety was
guaranteed to his allies in Italy.

The eloquence of Cineas was fortified with presents for the Senators;
and though these were refused, many seemed disposed to treat with him,
when the aged APPIUS CLAUDIUS CAECUS (Blind) was led into the Senate,
and declared that Rome should never treat with an enemy in arms.

Cineas was deeply impressed by the dignity of the Romans, and declared
that the Senators were an assembly of kings and Rome itself a temple.

Pyrrhus then tried force, and, hastily advancing northward, appeared
within eighteen miles of the city. Here his danger became great. The
defection he had hoped for among the Latins did not take place, and
the armies which had been operating elsewhere were now ready to unite
against him. He therefore retired into winter quarters at Tarentum,
where he received the famous embassy of GAIUS FABRICIUS, sent to
propose an interchange of prisoners. It was in vain that bribes and
threats were employed to shake the courage of the men sent by the
Senate; and, on his part, Pyrrhus refused to grant the desired
exchange.

Many Italian nations now joined Pyrrhus, and hostilities were renewed.